Email

Sergei Lemberg, an attorney who practices lemon law is sitting in the guest blogger’s chair today.

Considering they use such advanced technology, it’s amazing that GPS tracking systems are so darned reliable. But while GPS systems almost never conk out, the same can’t be said for the vehicles they accompany.

After taking the plunge and buying a new car, it can be devastating to find out that the vehicle has problems that seemingly can’t be fixed. Everyday, I listen to the frustrations of clients who have taken their new cars in for repair time and time again, only to have the problem resurface. Thankfully, lemon law lawyers across the country can count on a variety of state and federal laws to help their clients get justice.

Basically, there are three things people need to know about lemon laws. First, every state has a different lemon law on the books, so it’s important to know the criteria that define a lemon in your state. For example, some states cover only new vehicles, while others cover both new and used cars. Similarly, some states only cover vehicles for the first year or 12,000 miles on the odometers, while other states have a longer coverage period.

Second, consumers need to be conscientious in their documentation, as this can be a tremendous help in establishing a case. You should jot down the days, times, and circumstances when your car has a problem; the days you take it in for service; and notes about any conversations you have with the dealer or manufacturer. You should also keep copies of written records, like repair orders and correspondence.

Finally, with the help of a lemon law attorney, consumers should be able to get either a refund or replacement for a defective vehicle. Even if your car doesn’t meet the stringent definitions of your state’s lemon law, you can often get a financial settlement by using other state and federal laws designed to protect consumers.

So, while you’ll most likely never run across a GPS tracking device lemon, it’s good to know that the law is on your side when you buy a new vehicle.